Psychiatrists in Bourbon County, KY
![Photo of Erin Greenlee, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b701993e-f521-4f05-b02e-4d2a06fb287b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Greenlee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paris, KY 40361
I have experience in assessing and treating complex mental health issues in the inpatient and outpatient settings for people of all ages. I am looking forward to treating individuals in the private practice setting with similar mental health concerns.
I have experience in assessing and treating complex mental health issues in the inpatient and outpatient settings for people of all ages. I am looking forward to treating individuals in the private practice setting with similar mental health concerns.
![Photo of Erica Webb, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5c54df-e05f-4c8d-ab49-a4cd54fbc420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Webb is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Michigan and moved to Kentucky 17 years ago after her husband finished his time in the military. She has over 10 years of nursing experience and has worked the last 8 years at the University of Kentucky Hospital working various specialties units with the majority of her time as a pool RN in the Emergency Department. She received her Master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and American Nurses Association.
Erica Webb is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She is originally from Michigan and moved to Kentucky 17 years ago after her husband finished his time in the military. She has over 10 years of nursing experience and has worked the last 8 years at the University of Kentucky Hospital working various specialties units with the majority of her time as a pool RN in the Emergency Department. She received her Master's Degree from Eastern Kentucky University and is a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association and American Nurses Association.
![Photo of Casey Mattingly, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4f50ae0-0845-4330-a0bd-bbd49baaf796/1/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Mattingly is a Medication Provider, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a Master's Degree in Nursing. Casey believes patient should be involved in their care and be an advocate for themselves. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and postpartum depression/anxiety. In her spare time, Casey enjoys fishing with her husband and playing with her son.
Casey Mattingly is a Medication Provider, who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Northern Kentucky University with a Master's Degree in Nursing. Casey believes patient should be involved in their care and be an advocate for themselves. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and postpartum depression/anxiety. In her spare time, Casey enjoys fishing with her husband and playing with her son.
![Photo of Christian Litman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b3872a7-5d3a-41b9-8836-ef314c2c561a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Harley Litman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a Master's of Science in Nursing at Northern Kentucky University. Harley believes a patient should not only be involved in their care but encourage confidence when it comes to advocating for themself. She believes in educating and working with patients with tools in psychotherapy and/or medication management to enjoy and have a better quality of life. Outside of work, Harley loves to spend time with her husband and two kids. She enjoys cooking, gardening, traveling, and reading.
Harley Litman is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2023. She earned a Master's of Science in Nursing at Northern Kentucky University. Harley believes a patient should not only be involved in their care but encourage confidence when it comes to advocating for themself. She believes in educating and working with patients with tools in psychotherapy and/or medication management to enjoy and have a better quality of life. Outside of work, Harley loves to spend time with her husband and two kids. She enjoys cooking, gardening, traveling, and reading.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Brittany Robinson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a0d43fa-d330-40e3-8f96-8ba16de76427/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for holistic healing, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to mental wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations with medication management and specialize in treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the belief that true healing occurs when we address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
![Photo of Melissa Barnett, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a262a1-18d4-42c8-8def-1c4d0fe71e47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
![Photo of Gabrielle Caniglia, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05518941-41cd-4b13-872e-0e2228112c05/1/320x400.png)
Gabrielle Caniglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223 (Online Only)
I have been in practice as a nurse practitioner since 2016 working in various outpatient settings. I treat children, adolescents and adults. Let’s work together as a team to create a treatment plan that best suits you as an individual. I accept most insurances as well as cash pay. I currently only offer telehealth sessions.
I have been in practice as a nurse practitioner since 2016 working in various outpatient settings. I treat children, adolescents and adults. Let’s work together as a team to create a treatment plan that best suits you as an individual. I accept most insurances as well as cash pay. I currently only offer telehealth sessions.
![Photo of Brenda Smith, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89a10ba8-a00c-454b-9bee-35ccfebeb795/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Smith is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 6 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health including inpatient and outpatient settings. Prior to practicing in psychiatry, she worked as a Registered Nurse in a hospital setting for 20 years. She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Brenda Smith is a board-certified advanced practice registered nurse. She has over 6 years of experience in the field of psychiatry and mental health including inpatient and outpatient settings. Prior to practicing in psychiatry, she worked as a Registered Nurse in a hospital setting for 20 years. She received her master's degree in nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
![Photo of William Nunley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36be5966-45f6-4fed-9204-e97a0ac48c08/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
![Photo of Autumn Shutt, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfe9aa9b-9985-4562-a96b-9316ccb79716/1/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
![Photo of Hoyt Noble - PRISM Wellness Solutions, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14911fb9-43b9-45e0-8b65-245aa83ca662/1/320x400.jpeg)
PRISM Wellness Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40513
PRISM Wellness Solutions was established in 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized a major lapse in access to mental health services. Finding the right provider is not always easy but we are confident that you will find a match here.
PRISM Wellness Solutions was established in 2022 after the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized a major lapse in access to mental health services. Finding the right provider is not always easy but we are confident that you will find a match here.
![Photo of Dr. Ethan Short, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a619a83-6e0d-4ed8-bcce-c238dacb5176/1/320x400.jpeg)
My calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of severe mental illness including schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, addictions (opiates, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, alcohol, tobacco, etc.), PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, and adult ADHD. I am trained in multiple psychotherapies, but primarily practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as an alternative to medication, or as an adjunctive treatment for the above conditions.
My calling is to care for those struggling under the gravity of severe mental illness including schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, addictions (opiates, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, alcohol, tobacco, etc.), PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, and adult ADHD. I am trained in multiple psychotherapies, but primarily practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as an alternative to medication, or as an adjunctive treatment for the above conditions.
![Photo of Brittany Stark, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61604c41-fb01-4c1a-a035-592341e05765/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Stark, PMHNP Brittany Stark is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. Brittany believes in providing a holistic, collaborative, and individualized approach to mental healthcare so that optimal mental healthcare goals are attainable and sustainable. In her spare time, Brittany enjoys hiking, camping, painting, writing, reading, traveling, music and being with her family.
Brittany Stark, PMHNP Brittany Stark is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University. Brittany believes in providing a holistic, collaborative, and individualized approach to mental healthcare so that optimal mental healthcare goals are attainable and sustainable. In her spare time, Brittany enjoys hiking, camping, painting, writing, reading, traveling, music and being with her family.
![Photo of Sandra Edwards, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88245594-7f20-4f85-9b8f-68e993c48f06/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
![Photo of Jessica Sibbie, PMHNP, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c08e371e-8225-451c-9da2-8030a3b9ff1e/3/320x400.png)
Jessica Sibbie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
![Photo of Linda Thomas - Parsons Medication Management, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482bfdcc-3e1c-4378-a701-a57cb120d907/1/320x400.png)
Parsons Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Berea, KY 40403
At Parsons Counseling, we believe each person deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Our goal is to care for you, your family, and your unique situation to help you learn, heal, and thrive! When counseling alone falls short, our psychiatric nurse practitioners are here to support you and help find the right solution for your mental health.
At Parsons Counseling, we believe each person deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Our goal is to care for you, your family, and your unique situation to help you learn, heal, and thrive! When counseling alone falls short, our psychiatric nurse practitioners are here to support you and help find the right solution for your mental health.
![Photo of Jaime Varney - Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6fa6e4e-72ac-4b06-b351-f0296d0ba909/1/320x400.png)
Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Georgetown, KY 40324 (Online Only)
Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness is best-suited for clients that are interested in a holistic and functional approach to mental health. We believe in the mind-body connection and by examining the root causes of mental health disorders, our clients can achieve effective and lasting health and wellness.
Synergy Psychiatry and Wellness is best-suited for clients that are interested in a holistic and functional approach to mental health. We believe in the mind-body connection and by examining the root causes of mental health disorders, our clients can achieve effective and lasting health and wellness.
![Photo of Patricia Estes, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54c0c628-9358-4e5b-85fc-93f3054953b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
![Photo of Dr. Cody B. Pittman - Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0eb9b3c2-4bac-4c60-a5c9-e0dabbca8b87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Neurons Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
Serving ALL of Kentucky! Hello! Welcome to Healing Neurons Psychiatry, where we are healing the mind for a better tomorrow. We all know how difficult managing stress, anxiety, depression, and everyday life can be. However, you don't have to do it alone!
![Photo of Rebecca O'Hair, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89e70858-aa75-4bac-b96c-4c1ca8e399de/1/320x400.jpeg)
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
becca is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has been practicing with Lifestance since 2021. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with her MSN - APRN. Rebecca believes that listening to the patient is one of the most important parts of developing a good working relationship. Equally important is including the patient in the development of the plan of care and helping them understand all of the options available to them. Particular areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
See more therapy options for Bourbon County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bourbon County, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Bourbon County, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Sleep or Insomnia |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
25% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
25% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Bourbon County, KY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bourbon County?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.